This Caramel Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a luxurious, buttery cake infused with rich cream cheese and topped with a smooth caramel glaze. The cream cheese enhances the texture, making it irresistibly moist while providing a slight tang that balances the cake’s sweetness. This pound cake is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply indulging in a classic, homemade dessert. Enjoy it with coffee or a scoop of ice cream for an extra decadent treat!
Ingredients:
For the Pound Cake:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 ½ cups (500g) granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
For the Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt cake pan or a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add sugar, continuing to beat for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.
- Bake for 75–80 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Glaze
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar, stirring until dissolved.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring over the cake.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the cooled cake.
- Slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for the Best Caramel Cream Cheese Pound Cake:
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
- Avoid overmixing the flour to keep the cake moist.
- Try a praline twist by adding toasted pecans to the caramel glaze.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
This rich, creamy, caramel-drizzled pound cake is a true showstopper! Would you like variations, such as adding chocolate or a nutty crust? Let’s make it even more decadent.